MikeMpls is correct. While air travel has become more affordable for millions around the country - there are some repercussions (i.e. - pay structures cannot remain the same). Someone is going to have to take a pay cut. The same is true with Wal-Mart, Target and other retail stores. It is a FACT that having those entities in the marketplace (Wal-Mart, Target, K-Mart, etc.) has driven prices down and thus lifted living standards of all Americans. It is a FACT that you can enjoy a nicer lifestyle (by being able to purchase items that would otherwise be unaffordable.).

Whether its a $79 RT from IAH to LAS on Southwest Airlines (which would have cost $450 before deregulation) or a 42' plasma screen at Wal-Mart for $1799 -- consumers are paying LESS. What does LTRS think about that? Probably that he or she DOESN'T CARE BECAUSE LTRS can AFFORD to pay $10,000 for a plasma screen that was sold by a well-paid and well-trained electronics dealer which offers full benefits.

I agree with LTRS that unions have had an important place in our history. I would remind LTRS that Ronald Reagan was once the president of SAG. Not all unions are bad. Many union members are hard working team players concerned about the long term health of the enterprise because they understand that without its success (and survival) their contract is worthless. By the same toke, not all in management are greedy, evil people. However, in large measure - the consumer wants lower prices and a consistent product. If SWA can deliver, that is where the business is going to go. The current management at NWA is simply trying to adjust for these changing times and in so doing is beholden to old contracts signed when circumstances were substantially different.